Library Column

Whistler Public Library has invited childrens author Gerald Holt to officially launch this years Summer Reading Club, with an evening of reading, storytelling, and fun!

This enjoyable and free event will take place at the library, on July 9 at 7 p.m., and will be most suitable for children ages 5 and up. Mr. Holt will also be making appearances at the Squamish Public Library, on July 8 at 1 p.m., and the Pemberton Public Library on July 10 at 11 a.m.

A popular British Columbian author of childrens books, Mr. Holts work has been selected and recognized by the provinces distinguished awards in literature for young readers.

His novel
Tails of Flame
was short-listed for the Red Cedar Book Award, and was a finalist for the Blue Heron and the Surrey Book of the Year awards. Gerald Holts other books include:
The Ghostly Tales of Mr. Tooth
,
Ben and Jacky and the Missing Diamond
and
Mystery on the Fen
.

Mr. Holts past reads like a novel itself.

Born in England at Gravesend, Kent in 1937, he spent his early childhood watching Spitfires tilt V-bombs out of the skies, and observing the Allied troops on manoeuvres in the countryside in preparation for their upcoming battles. Upon completion of his education, Mr. Holt became a boy soldier, and served in the British Army.

Following his experience in the army, Gerald Holt worked for the Northern Rhodesia Police force as a platoon commander, and then as a detective inspector for their Criminal Investigation Department [C.I.D.].

When Northern Rhodesia claimed its independence, Mr. Holt returned to England and became a qualified Chartered Surveyor, a profession that brought him and his family to Canada in 1967.

The rest is history still in the making.

The Whistler evening with Mr. Holt will feature the authors
Tails of Flame
, a novel set in wartime London. The story tells the life of Tim, who spends his nights huddled in bomb shelters for protection against V-bombs.

Throughout the evening, Mr. Holt will be reading excerpts from his book, as well as sharing with the audience various artefacts pertaining to the novel.

Please note that pre-registration is important for this session and all other Summer Reading Club programs. Call the library at 604-932-5564 to enlist.

This evening will be a fascinating experience for youngsters and adults alike, so come along and enjoy this event with the Whistler Public Library on Wednesday, July 9 at 7 p.m.